Adopt-a-Pet gives 15-60 lb (about 7-27 kg) overall and 40-60 lb (about 18-27 kg) for Standard-Poodle crosses; Dogster gives 30-60 lb. No split by sex. The Poodle size used and each dog's inheritance decide where it lands.
The coat is usually thick and medium in length and can be anything from gently wavy like a Border Collie to curly like a Poodle. Which way it goes depends on the individual pup.314
Coloursblack and whiteblackbrownredgreysablemulti-colour31
Personality what they are like
A sharp, friendly and affectionate dog that bonds closely with its family. With two famously bright parents it picks up new things fast and enjoys having a job, though that cleverness can come with an independent streak. Exact personality depends on which parent a dog takes after.314
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Aim for roughly 60-90 minutes of exercise a day or more, mixing running or brisk walks with training games and puzzles so the brain gets a workout too.31
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush several times a week, or daily for curlier coats, to keep tangles away. Curly-coated dogs need regular haircuts. Check ears and trim nails as part of the routine.31
Home where they are happiest
Happiest with an active family that has time for daily exercise and training; a home with access to outdoor space and plenty to do suits this energetic mix.31
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, good-quality food suited to an active medium dog, split into two meals. Dogster suggests around 2 cups of kibble a day for an active medium-sized Bordoodle, adjusted to the dog.1
Company who they like around
Sociable and usually good with children and other dogs when socialised. The herding instinct may show up as trying to round up cats, kids or other pets.31
The story where it all began
The Bordoodle is a newer designer mix, one of many crosses built around the Poodle since the late 20th century. Both parents have long working pasts: the Border Collie as a sheepdog from the borderlands of England and Scotland, and the Poodle as a water retriever.125
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Both parents are often listed among the most intelligent dog breeds in the world.1
2
A Border Collie called Chaser learned the names of more than 1,000 objects.2
3
Border Collies can follow voice and whistle commands from long distances while herding.2
4
Bordoodles can be anything from small to large, because breeders use Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodles.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The Bordoodle, also known as 'Borderdoodle', is a hybrid cross between a purebred Border Collie and a purebred Poodle. The name is a portmanteau combining 'Border' (from Border Collie) and 'doodle' (a common term for Poodle mixes).6
I woke up at dawn, already planning my day. First, I nudged my human awake with a toy in my mouth, time for our morning puzzle! I solved the treat-dispensing game in three seconds flat. Then we ran through the park; I herded a leaf, then a jogger's shoelace. Back home, I learned a new trick: spin left! I nailed it on the second try. After lunch, I watched a squirrel from the window, practicing my stalking pose. When my human came home, I greeted her with a happy dance. Brain tired, heart full.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
The Royal Kennel Club
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.4
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Bordoodle. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Bordoodle tip
Bordoodles are smart and active, so use low-calorie treats for training and keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain. If your dog has itchy skin or a gassy tummy, a hypoallergenic diet may help, ask your vet.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Bordoodle, and at what times?
Feed your Bordoodle twice a day, ideally in the morning and evening. A complete, good-quality food for active medium dogs works well, with about 2 cups daily adjusted to your dog's needs.17
What should a Bordoodle eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Your Bordoodle should eat a complete, good-quality food suited to an active medium dog. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA.18
How often should I bathe a Bordoodle?
Bathe your Bordoodle about every 8 weeks as a starting plan, or at least every three months according to general guidance. More frequent baths may be needed if your dog gets very dirty.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Bordoodle need brushing?
Brush your Bordoodle several times a week, or daily if the coat is curly, to prevent tangles. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, but adjust based on coat type.31Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Bordoodle's nails, and how often?
Trim your Bordoodle's nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Bordoodle need?
Your Bordoodle needs about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily, including walks, runs, and brain games. Furry Diary recommends daily walks and play.31Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Bordoodle's teeth and ears?
Brush your Bordoodle's teeth daily if possible, at least 2-3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without inserting anything.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Bordoodle live?
A Bordoodle typically lives between 12 and 15 years.31
Is a Bordoodle good with children and other pets?
Yes, with proper socialisation, a Bordoodle is usually good with children and other dogs. They may show herding instincts with small pets or kids.31
Can a Bordoodle be left alone?
This varies by individual dog; ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your Bordoodle.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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